OPINION
If there was one player that West Ham would not want to lose this summer it is Marko Arnautovic.
The Austria international recovered from a slow start to his Hammers career to become their main man in 2017/18, netting 11 goals and providing eight assists in all competitions.
Arnautovic is set to form the centre point for Manuel Pellegrini’s attack next season, and the club cannot afford to lose him in the coming weeks.
Reported interest from Manchester United has unfortunately raised the possibility of that happening, with the Mirror reporting that West Ham have placed a £60million price tag on the 29-year-old.
Arnautovic has now provided his latest take on the reports, and while there is nothing too untoward in his words, it is not exactly an emphatic declaration of loyalty to the club.
Speaking to Sky Austria, as quoted by Sky Sports, Arnautovic said: “I am happy with my job. Whatever happens will happen. I’ve never heard anything. Even three weeks ago I haven’t heard anything. That’s why I cannot say anything about it.
“The only thing that bothers me is that I am in good health and that I am able to play football. I have a contract at West Ham – that’s all we have to talk about.”
As mentioned, there is nothing too outwardly conspicuous about Arnautovic’s response, but the Austrian has not exactly put the rumours to bed.
And, with the 29-year-old being well known as a massively ambitious player who has unwavering self belief, there remains the possibility of him having one eye on a move to United this summer.
If a bid from the Red Devils was to come in, then West Ham may be in trouble.
Arnautovic is not the easiest character to deal with, and who knows what his reaction will be if that happens?
He may attempt to force a move through by submitting a transfer request, and at that point there may be little the club can do to keep hold of him.
His refusal to slap down the rumours is therefore worrying for the club, and they must hope that these reports are wide of the mark or for United to move their interest elsewhere.
It is set to be nervy times ahead for the Hammers, and fans should be biting their nails as we wait to see how it unfolds.
